Vehicle transporting apparatus

ABSTRACT

The apparatus disclosed comprises a rail car particularly suited for transporting automobiles and the like. The rail car shown includes a plurality of side doors pivoted about their lower edges so they can be swung from a vertical, closed position to a laterally extending position where their free edges can engage the ground. While the doors are in their laterally extending position, autos can be driven onto the doors and hooked thereto. Thereafter, the doors can be moved to a closed position, such as by a fork lift truck, and the autos are supported on the doors verticallly, nose down. In the apparatus disclosed, each of the doors has both vertical and horizontal lock bolts which are interlocked so that they must both be locked before the fork lift can be removed following a door closing operation. The apparatus also includes auto engaging hook means which operate with the lock bolts to positively lock the autos to the doors.

United States Patent 1 Ross, Jr. et al.

[ VEHICLE TRANSPORTING APPARATUS [75] Inventors: Irving D. Ross, Jr., Barrington;

Thorvald Madland, Arlington Hts, both of I11.

[73] Assignee: Youngstown Steel Door Co.,

Cleveland, Ohio [22] Filed: Apr. 8, 1970 [21] Appl. No.: 26,560

[52] US. Cl 214/38 R, 49/37, 49/70,

105/368 R, 292/36 [51] Int. Cl. B65g 67/02 [58] Field of Search 214/41, 44, 38 CC, 505,

214/38 R; 105/367 R, 268 R; 296/1 A; 49/37, 70; 292/36 [56] References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 2,996,020 8/1961 Udstad 105/367 3,014,604 12/1961 Loomis .214/38 CC 3,182,610 5/1965 Jones 296/1 A 3,613,914 10/1971 Jaekle et a1 214/38 R OTHER PUBLICATIONS Southern Pacific Bulletin, July 1969.

[451 Oct. 29, 1974 Primary Examiner-Robert G. Sheridan Attorney, Agent, or Firm-John H. Mulholland [5 7] ABSTRACT The apparatus disclosed comprises a rail car particularly suited for transporting automobiles and the like. The rail car shown includes a plurality of side doors pivoted about their lower edges so they can be swung from a vertical, closed position to a laterally extending position where their free edges can engage the ground. While the doors are in their laterally extending position, autos can be driven onto the doors and hooked thereto. Thereafter, the doors can be moved to av closed position, such as by a fork lift truck, and the autos are supported on the doors verticallly, nose down. In the apparatus disclosed, each of the doors has both vertical and horizontal lock bolts which are interlocked so that they must both be locked before the fork lift can be removed following a door closing operation. The apparatus also includes auto engaging hook means which operate with the lock bolts to positively lock the autos to the doors.

14 Claims, 24 Drawing Figures PAIENTEDum 29 4914 1844424 saw 03 u? 10 INVENTOR. IRVING 0. Ross, JR. THQRVALD MADLAND ,WMM

ATTORNEYS PATENIEUumzs e914 saw on or 10 INVENTOR. IRVING D. ROSS, JR. BY THORVALD MADLAND 4%; W 3 M M ni ATTORNEYS PAIENIEDum 29 m4 sum-:1 us or 10 INVENTOR. r IRVING D. ROSS, JR. THORVALD MADLAND 40, g Mnl/zolland ATTORNEYS PATENTED 0m 29 I974 1844424 sum as or 10 I INVENTOR. R'OSS, JR. BY THORVALD'MADLAND 4W, 8 Mal/10M ATTORNEYS PATENIEBnm 29 I974 sum 07 0F 1o FIG. |4A

FIG. l4

INVENTOR.

IRVING D. ROSS, JR.

BY THORVALD MADLAND 44, Swa /14M ATTORNEYS PAIENIE-Bnm 29 m4 sum as m 10 FIG. l5

INVENTOR. ROSS IRVING D. JR, BY THQRVALD MADLAND 4 5W 8 Mulolland ATTORNEYS PATENTEMBT 29 1924 SHEEI 09 0F 19 INVENTOR.

IRVING D. Ross, JR.

BY THORVALD MADLAND 4m 8 Mnlalhml ATTORNEYS PATENIEBnm 29 m4 SHEET '10 0F 10 a w. a L 9 8 0 4 AIM O I o fi 7 2 0 m gm 3. 2% 2 M ,l E 2 f 0 mm 2 6 a INVENTOR. ROSS, JR.

' @Xgl RS/AE DMADLAND FIG. 22 .B

, 4W, i/Wwl/xolhnd ATTORNEYS 1 VEHIQLE TRANSPORTING APPARATUS BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The subject invention is directed toward the transportation art and, more particularly, to an improved apparatus for transporting automobiles and the like.

The invention is especially suited for use in railway transportation of autos and will be described with particular reference thereto; however, it will be appreciated the invention is capable of broader application and could be used in many types of transportation apparatus and for different vehicles.

Rail cars for the transportation of autos have recently been developed in which the autos are vertically suspended, nose down, in side-by-side relationship. In general, these rail cars include the usual undercarriages and frame. The upper, or auto supporting section of the car comprises fixed, car end walls connected by a roof. The sides of the car are side-by-side door assemblies that are hinged about their lower edges. The door assemblies are arranged so that they can be pivoted from a vertical position in which they extend between the floor of the car and the roof, to a lowered position in which they extend outwardly from the car with their free edge in engagement with the ground.

With the door assemblies in the lowered position, the autos are merely driven or pushed onto the upwardly facing surfaces of the doors. The autos are connected to the doors by book assemblies which extend from the door and engage socket members connected to the autos frame. Thereafter, the doors are raised to their vertical, closed position, generally through the use of a modified fork lift truck or the like. Suitable door latch mechanisms are actuated to maintain the doors closed. This type of car is discussed in the August, 1969 issue of Modern Railroads.

As can be appreciated, the latch mechanisms must be particularly simple and sturdy to eliminate any possibility of the inadvertant opening during transportation. Likewise, it is important that the latch mechanisms be in a closed position before the rail car is moved. These problems are compounded by the weight of the door and the autos carried thereon.

In addition to the above requirements and problems, the doors should preferably be arranged so that they cannot easily be opened by vandals or thieves. Also, the doors should be sealed relative to the rail car body so that the autos are protected from the elements.

The subject invention provides a door assembly which meets the noted requirements and overcomes the problems discussed. Door assemblies formed in accordance with the invention can be both simple and highly effective.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Generally speaking, one aspect of the invention contemplates a door assembly comprising a door member having an inner face, an outer face, and a peripheral edge. Hinge means are provided for mounting the door for swinging movement between an open position and a closed position. At least two lock bolt members are carried by the door for movement between an open position and a closed position. Extending along the outer face of the door member is a guideway forming means for receiving and guiding an associated member, such as the fork of a fork lift truck, for movement along the guideway in a first direction for opening the door latches and in a second direction for closing the door latches. Lock bolt operating means extend between each of the lock bolt members and the guideway and means are included for preventing the associated member, when moving in the latch opening direction, from opening the first lock bolt member until the second lock bolt member is in an unlock position. Additionally, the operating means are arranged so that when the associated member is moving in the latch closing direc' tion, it cannot be withdrawn from the door until the second lock bolt is in its lock position.

As can be appreciated, by the provision of the interlocked bolt actuating mechanism, human errors in opening and closing the door are eliminated. Note that the human operator cannot remove the associated member until the door is completely locked. Considering the possible damage and loss which can result from inadvertent opening of the door, this fact is particularly significant. Similarly, when a powerful apparatus such as a lift truck is used for opening the door, it is especially important that no attempt be made to open the door until all lock bolts are open. The subject invention prevents this from happening inadvertently.

A second aspect of the invention contemplates vehicle transporting apparatus including at least one door assembly mounted for pivoting movement about a generally horizontal axis between a generally vertical transporting position and a generally lateral loading position. The door assembly has an inner face with means to connect vehicles thereto, and outer face, and a peripheral edge. At least one lock bolt member is carried by the door for movement between a lock position and an open position, and means are provided to continually bias said bolt member toward said lock position. Actuating means are associated with the assembly for moving said lock bolt member from its locked position to its open position. Preferably, the actuating means include a cam lever member carried in the door assembly and a cable extending between the cam lever and the lock bolt.

Another aspect of the invention contemplates that connecting means on the inner face of the door includes movable means for positively connecting the vehicles thereto. And, further, that the latch bolt operating mechanisms include means for simultaneously operating the movable means.

Accordingly, a primary object of the invention is the provision of a door assembly of the general type described wherein the lock bolt mechanisms are inter locked in a manner which prevents at least some of the latch bolts from being inadvertently left in the unlocked position when the door is closed.

Another object is the provision of a vehicle transporting door assembly wherein the door mounted auto supporting members are provided with locking assemblies arranged so that when the door is locked in its closed position, the autos are locked to the supporting members.

A further object is the provision of a vehicle transporting door assembly in which the associated apparatus used for lifting and closing the door assemblies cannot be removed from the door until after all lock bolts are closed.

Yet another object is the provision of a door assembly having lock bolt assemblies with the actuators for at least one of the lock bolts comprising simple camlever and cable assemblies.

Still another object is the provision of a vehicle transporting apparatus of the type discussed in which the door assemblies are arranged to provide a good, weather-tight seal with body of the apparatus.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS These and other objects and advantages will become apparent from the following description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which illustrate a preferred embodiment of the invention and wherein:

FIG. I is a plan view of a rail car arranged for transporting autos and embodying features of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a side elevation of the rail car shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an end elevation taken on line 3-3 of FIG. I and showing the preferred sequence followed in loading and unloading autos from the rail car;

FIG. 4 is an enlarged side elevation of one of the door assemblies used in the rail car shown in FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken on line 5-5 of FIG. 2 and showing the internal structure of the door assemblies and their relationship to the car frame;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional taken on line 6-6 of FIG. 4 and showing the hook arrangement used to hold the autos to the door assemblies during transportation;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken on line 7-7 of FIG. 4 and showing in detail the preferred lock plate actuating assembly of the auto engaging hooks;

FIG. 8 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view taken on line 8-8 of FIG. 4 showing the internal frame structure of two adjoining door assemblies;

FIG. 9 view taken on line 9-9 of FIG. 6 and showing the assemblies used for moving the cover plates of the vehicle supporting hooks;

FIG. 10 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view taken on line 10-10 of FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a vertical cross-sectional view taken on line 11-11 of FIG. 4 and showing one of the vertical lock bolts and the mechanism provided for moving in between locked and unlocked positions;

FIG. 12 is a view taken on line 12-12 of FIG. 11 showing the supporting guiding arrangement for the vertical lock bolt;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken on line 13-13 of FIG. 11 showing the vertical lock bolts cam lever operator and its mounting arrangement;

FIG. 14 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view taken on line 14-14 of FIG. 11 showing in detail the connecting drive cable arrangement which extends between the cam lever and the vertical lock bolt;

FIG. 14A is a continuation of FIG. 14 and joins FIG. 14 along match lines A-B and A'B' prime;

FIG. 15 is a detailed view showing the interlock arrangement between the various lock bolts;

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken on line 16-16 of FIG. I5;

FIG. 17 is a view showing one of the horizontal lock bolt actuating mechanisms;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken on line 18-18 of FIG. 17 showing the manual operating lever for the horizontal lock bolts used in one modification of the invention; I

FIG. 19 is a detailed view showing one of the manual operating levers;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken on line 20-20 of FIG. 15;

FIG. 21 is a detailed view of a horizontal lock bolt actuating mechanism which has a modified interlock arrangement;

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view taken on line 22-22 of FIG. 21; and,

FIG. 23 (sheet I) is a detail showing of the modified end portion of a lift truck fork used for opening and closing the door assembly.

I DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Referring now to the drawings wherein the showings are for the purpose of illustrating preferred embodiments of the invention only, and not for the purpose of limiting same, FIGS. 1 through 3 show the overall arrangement of a rail car 10 arranged to transport vehicles such as automobiles. The car 10 includes the usual frame 12 and typical wheeled undercarriages 14.

The particular type of rail car illustrated is a relatively recent development and is used to transport automobiles in a vertical position on door assemblies mounted for pivotal movement about a horizontal axis. The door assemblies are arranged so that when they are swung to a lowered position, as shown in FIG. 3, the vehicles, such as automobiles, can be driven on to the doors and connected thereto. Thereafter, the doors are swung upwardly to the closed, dotted line position shown in FIG. 3.

Although not of importance to the invention, the particular embodiment under consideration, the car 10 is provided with five door assemblies 16 on each side. Each of the door assemblies 16 will hereafter be described in substantial detail; however, for present purposes, it is sufficient to note that each door assembly is adapted to receive three automobiles in side-by-side relationship. Thus, the car can carry a total of 30 automobiles.

RAIL CAR FRAME 12 The particular details of the frame 12 form no part of the subject invention, but as best shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, the frame includes an underframe 18 which extends the length of the car. The underframe 18 is formed from suitable structural frame members including the side sill members 20 and a center sill member 22. Both the members 20 and 22 extend substantially the length of the car and are interconnected by crossbearer members 24. A floor plate 25 extends horizontally the length of the car and is connected to members 20, 22, and 24. Carried by the center sill member 22 and extending vertically upwardly at spaced points along the frame are vertical column or support members 26. The members 26 are connected at their upper ends by horizontally extending channel members 28. Suitable diagonal brace members 30 are connected between the vertical supports 26 and the channel members 28. Extending outwardly from opposite sides of the vertically supports 26 are beams 32 which support the car roof 34 and, additionally, have their outer ends interconnected by side plate members 36 which extend the entire length of the car 10.

Extending upwardly from the outer longitudinal edges of the under frame 18 are short frame members 21 which form a short wall and support the door assemblies 16. Additionally, vertical side frame members 33 are positioned between each of the door assemblies 16 and connected between the base frame 28 and the roof support beams 32 (See FIGS. 2 and DOOR ASSEMBLIES 16 As previously mentioned, the door assemblies are mounted for pivotal movement about horizontal axes. Referring in particular to FIGS. 4 and 5, it will be seen that each of the door assemblies 16 is provided with hinge means which include four sets of downwardly extending hinge plate members 36. Members are in overlapping engagement with similar sets of hinge plate members 40 carried on the top edge or surface of the short side wall formed by frame members 211. Suitable hinge pins 32 pass through the interleaved plates 34 and 40 to form a rigid hinge to allow the doors to be pivoted in the manner shown in FIG. 3.

The structural details of the doors themselves could, of course, take many forms, but as best shown in FIGS. 4, 5, 6, and 8 in the embodiment under consideration, each door includes a generally Zee member 39 which extends throughout the width of the door and has the hinge plate members 38 welded to its undersurface. Extending upwardly from the member 39 and fonned as best shown in FIG. 8, is the main door frame structure which is preferably formed from sheet metal. In general, the door frame structure is shown as including a plurality of vertically extending hat members 44. Each of the members 44 is spaced apart a distance substantially equal to the wheel base of the vehicles to be trans ported and provides a trackway for the vehicles to be driven on to the inner surface of the door when it is in the lowered position, such as shown in solid lines in FIG. 3. Note that each of the door assemblies 16 is arranged to transport three automobiles and thus for each complete door assembly 16 there are six of the members 44 (see FIG. 4). Referring again to FIG. 8, it will be noted that along the terminal edges of the door assembly there are somewhat S-shaped edge members 46 which are riveted or otherwise joined to the vertical edges of the outermost members Additionally, connected between the legs of the member 44 are plates 48. The location and arrangement of plates 48 can best be seen from FIG. 5. Between adjacent members 44 where are also connected plates 50 with offset ends and plates 52 which provide the door with substantial lateral rigidity.

Associated with the plates 43 and, as best shown in FIG. 5, are a series of inclined plates 53, 54, 55 and 56 which extend from the edges of plates 48 to the bottom of members 44. As can be seen from FIG. 5, the arrangement of the members and plates 53 through 56 is such as to provide, in effect, wells for receiving the wheels of the automobiles. It is to be understood that sets of the plates 48 and 53 through 56 are associated with each of the vertical members 44. Additionally, between adjacent sets of members 44, there are reinforcing members best shown in FIG. 8 and including a vertically extending member 58 of generally trapezoidal cross-section which is connected at its widest end to the inner-comer of the adjacent members 44. The members 58 form guideways for receiving the fork of the lift truck used for opening and closing the doors. This feature will be discussed more fully hereafter.

The outer free edge of the door is provided with plates 60 which extend between adjacent pairs of the members 44 (see FIGS. 4 and 5). Members 60 give additional lateral rigidity to the door assemblies and are enclosed at their upper ends by generally U-shaped members 62 which extend over the ends of members 44 and provide a smooth incline over which the vehicles can ba driven when being loaded on the door as shown in FIG. 3. Also, suitable reinforcing members 63 and 64 are connected between the free edges of plate 60 and members 50 (see FIG. 5).

Extending along the upper edge of member 62, as shown in FIG. 5, is a seal plate 66. While not shown in FIG. 4, it is to be understood that the seal plate 66 extends across all three of members 62 in any one door assembly. The seal plate 66 is arranged so that when the door is in its closed position, the plate cooperates with a resilient seal strip 68 carried. on the roof 34 adjacent to channel members 36. Note that as shown in FIG. 5, with the door in the closed position, the seal plate 66 resiliently deforms the member 68 and provides a water-tight roof line seal for the interior of the railroad car It).

VEHICLE ENGAGING ASSEMBLIES 69 As can be appreciated, the vehicles being transported must be securely attached to the door assemblies, preferably, prior to the time a door is moved to the vertical position. For this reason, each of the door assemblies is provided on its inner surface with vehicle engaging assemblies 69 (see FIG. 6). Each of the assemblies 69 include a hook assembly 70 which is rigidly connected to the door plate member 52 at locations adjacent the members 44. The members '70 are located so as to correspond to hook receiving or socket members 72 which are connected to the undercarriage of the automobiles which are to be transported. Referring to FIG. 6, it can be seen that as a vehicle is driven on to the door, the hooks 70 engage the members 72 just as the vehicle moves into final position on the door frame with its wheels entering the wheel wells. Thereafter, the door can be moved to the vertical position and the automobile is entirely supported from the hooks 70.

In the embodiment shown, engagement of the hooks 70 on the door with the members '72 on the car frame does not take place until the wheels assume their final position in the wells. I-Iowever, depending upon the particular auto frame or undercarriage, it may be necessary to put temporary or even permanent blocks to keep the auto elevated sufficiently above the hooks to prevent hook interference as the auto is driven onto the door.

In normal operation, the weight of the automobile and the inter-engagement of hooks 70 with the members 72 would be sufficient to maintain the automobiles properly supported and located; however, it can be appreciated that should the railroad car be violently jostled or bounced, it would be possible for a vehicle to become unhooked from members 70. For this reason, at least some of the hooks 70 are provided with locking cap plate assemblies 74 which include means operable after the automobiles are in position for enclosing the open end of the associated hook. 70 to prevent the member 72 from falling off. Referring to FIG. 4, it will be seen that for each vehicle receiving location on the door assembly 16, there are four of the hook assemblies 70. Preferably, at least one hook assembly of each set of four is provided with a coverplate or lock plate as sembly 74.

Although the coverplate assemblies could have many particular arrangements, the preferred embodiment can best be understood from FIGS. 4, 6, 7, 9 and 10 of the drawings. As can be seen from FIG. 4, the coverplate assemblies 74 are shown associated with the lower hook assemblies 70. Each of the assemblies 74 (as shown in FIG. 10) includes a generally rectangular metal plate 76 which extends horizontally through the door plate member 52 and slightly above the associated hook 70. The members 76 are arranged for horizontal siding movement and pass through slots 78 formed in member 52. Additionally, a guideplate is welded to the inner side of plate 52 and engages the opposite surfaces of member 76. As best shown in FIG. 7, the guideplate 80 is welded to plate 52 and extends perpendicularly therefrom closely adjacent the associated hook 70. As can be seen from FIGS. 9 and 10, when the coverplates 76 are moved to the right to the solid line position shown, they are above the associated hook member and the hook receiving member 72 which is connected to the auto frame. Thus, it is not possible for the hook receiving member 72 to slide upwardly off the hook. When moved to the left, the hook receiving member can, of course, be moved from the hook.

Although it could be possible to actuate the coverplate members 76 individually, the subject embodiment provides a common actuating mechanism which moves all of the coverplate members to and from their lock or hook enclosed position simultaneously with actuation of horizontal lock bolts. The means provided include a common horizontally extending bar 84 which is slidably mounted in the door frame assembly. As seen in FIGS. 7, 9, and 10, the member 84 has the coverplates 76 welded to its side for movement therewith. As shown, member 84 is carried by suitable slide bearings or guide members 86 which are connected to the members 44 and the door frame members 50.

The drive means for moving the member 84 includes a vertically extending shaft 88 (see FIGS. 4 and 7) which is carried in brackets or bearing plates 90 and 92 which extend outwardly from the outer surface of the door assembly. As can be seen from FIGS. 7 and 10, the shaft 88 has a bracket 94 welded thereto and extending to the right as viewed in FIG. 10. A link member 96 is connected to the outer end of the bracket 94. by a pin 98. The opposite end of the member 96 is similarly connected by a pin 100 to a pair of spaced brackets 102. The brackets 102 extend outwardly from a slidably mounted bar member 104 that is carried on the outer surface of the door by slide guides 106. A short connector plate 108 connects from the back surface of bar 104 into engagement with the member 84 which carries the coverplate 76. Plate I08 is preferably welded to both the bar 104 and the member 84. As can be appreciated, by rotating the shaft 88 in a clockwise direction as viewed in FIG. 10, the bar member 104 and, accordingly. the member 84 and the associated coverplates 74 move to the left. The means for rotating the shaft 88 could take many forms, but according to the first embodiment of the invention, they include a manually actuable lever 108 (see FIGS. 4 and 7) which is welded to the lower end of shaft 88.

In addition, to operating the coverplate assembly 74, the vertical shaft 88 is also interconnected to operate the right hand horizontal lock bolt assemblies 110 (see FIG. 4).

HORIZONTAL LOCK BOLT ASSEMBLIES 110 The door assemblies are arranged so that when they move into their upper or closed position, first, vertically extending lock bolt assemblies 109 engage in openings formed in the roof beams 32 as best shown in FIG. 5. The detail of each of the vertical lock bolt assemblies 109 will subsequently be described. In addition to the lock bolt assemblies 109, the subject device provides four horizontal lock bolt assemblies 110, 1100, 110b, and 110s. As best shown in FIG. 4, the horizontal lock bolt assemblies 110 are arranged to engage bolt receiving openings formed in the vertically extending frame members 33 that are positioned between each adjacent door assemblies 16.

Basically, each of the horizontal lock bolt assemblies 110 1100 are substantially identical. Referring to FIG. 17 and 18, the details of the upper right hand lock bolt assembly 110, FIG. 4, are shown. As mentioned, the remaining lock bolt assemblies are substantially identical; however, it should be understood that the left hand lock bolt assemblies are of opposite hand and differ slightly as will subsequently be explained. The lock bolt assembly 110 includes a first lock bolt member 112 which is mounted for horizontal siding movement in a bracket member 114 and carried on the marginal edge of the door assembly and connected between the associated frame member 44 and the edge member 46. Ad ditionally, an L-shaped bracket 116 slidable engages the inner end of the lock bolt member. The lock bolt 112 is horizontally aligned with an opening 118 formed in the outer flange of the adjacent vertical frame member 33. Accordingly, when the door is in the closed position, the lock bolt can be moved horizontally to engage the opening 118 and lock the door to the car frame.

The means for actuating the horizontal lock bolts could be of many types; however, the means preferably include a first slide member 104 which is connected to the outer surface of the door and mounted for a sliding movement horizontally therealong by slide brackets 122. A pin member extends inwardly from the righthand end of the member 104 (as viewed in FIG. 18) and passes through an opening 124 formed in the lock pin 112. The member 104 is reciprocated by being connected to the vertical shaft 88 in the same manner as previously discussed with reference to the coverplate assemblies 69. Note that one of the brackets 94 is welded to the shaft 88 at a location corresponding to the horizontal elevation of the associated lock bolt. A connecting link member 96 is connected through a pin 98 with the bracket 94. The opposite end of the link 96 is connected through a pin with the brackets 102 which are joined at their inner end to member 104. Accordingly, rotation of the shaft 88 by the lever 108 causes movement of the slide member 104 and the latch pin 112.

Referring again to FIG. 4, it should be pointed out that each of the horizontal lock bolt assemblies 110, a, 110b, and 110C have the same arrangement of the lock bolt portion per se, but differ slightly in the arrangement of their associated drive bars 104 through 1040. The drive bars 104a and l04b are identical but of opposite hand and have their inner ends passing into interlock assemblies 130 whose construction and function will subsequently be described. The bar 1040 is, as can be seen in FIG. 4, shorter and terminates inwardly a short distance from the outer door edge.

Both the lock bolt assemblies 1111b and 1111c are actuated separately from assemblies 110 and 110a. Note that a vertical drive shaft 88a arranged and mounted in the same manner as described with reference to shaft 88 extends vertically upward adjacent the lock pin assemblies 1111b and 1100. The shaft 88a is connected to these lock pin assemblies in the same manner as previously described with reference to assemblies 110 and 110a. Additionally, it is actuated by lever 1118a carried at its lower end at the same elevation as lever 111B. Accordingly, with the door in a closed position, actuation of levers 1118 and 108a in a counterclockwise direction causes all four horizontal lock bolt assemblies to be moved outwardly and engage the associated frame members 33.

VERTICAL LOCK BOLT ASSEMBLIES 109 In addition to the horizontal lock bolt assemblies 111) 1100, the door is also locked in a closed position by two vertical lock bolt assemblies 1119.

Althought the two vertical lock bolt assemblies could differ, in the subject embodiment they are identical. Accordingly, only the right hand vertical lock bolt assembly 109 (as viewed in FIG. 4) will be described in detail. This description, however, is to be taken as equally applicable to the left hand vertical lock bolt assembly.

The functioning and details of the vertical lock bolt assemblies 109 can best be understood by reference to FIG. 11 through 14a. As will be noted, each of the assemblies 1119 is mounted so as to extend vertically behind the frame members 56 which are between each auto carrying portions of the door assembly. Assemblies 109 each include an elongated rectangular lock bolt member 140 mounted for sliding movement by a bracket assembly 142 connected, for example, by rivets 144 which pass through the plate member 43 and the adjacent flanges of the vertical frames The latch member 1411 is preferably continually biased in an outward direction by a heavy compression spring 146 which is positioned between the lower end of the lock bolt 140 and a bracket plate 143 connected to the frame plate 43. A tubular guide shaft 150 is welded to the lower or inner end of lock bolt 141) and passes through an opening carried in the guide plate 148. The lower end of the tubular member 1511 is threaded and a pipe cap 151 is releasably connected thereto.

The vertical lock bolt assembly is actuated to an open position through a cam and cable drive assembly 152. The drive assembly 152 includes a first cam lever member 154 which is pivotally connected through a pin 156 to a generally U-shaped bracket 158 which extends inwardly from the inner face of the door. As best seen in FIGS. 11 13, bracket includes a pair of L-shaped plate members 160 which are welded to the door frame member 52 and joined at their outer free ends by short plates 162.

The cam lever member 154 is formed in a similar mariner and includes a pair of plates 164 joined in spaced relationship by plates 166 and 167. As shown, a bar member 168 extends between the two plates of cam lever 154 and is pivotally connected to the plates 164 by a pin 1711. The upper end of bar 168, as viewed in FIG. 11, is connected with the lower end of shaft by a flexible steel cable 172. A guide roller 174 is carried by suitable brackets extending inwardly from the inner surface of the door frame and controls the movement of the cable 172.

The normal or closed position of the member 154 is shown in solid lines in FIG. 11, that it is maintained biased in a counter-clockwise direction by the spring 146. In this position it extends downwardly into the guideway formed by the door frame member 58.

At the lower end of bar member 168, a stop plate member 176 is pivotally connected by pin 178. The stop plate member 176 is also pivotally connected to the two plates 1611 by pin 130.

OPERATION OF VERTICAL LOCK BOLT ASSEMBLIES 109 The operation of the lock bolt assembly can best be understood with a brief description of the procedures followed in moving the door assembly from the open position shown in solid lines in FIG. 3 to a closed position. Although many types of mechanisms could be used for moving the door to the closed position, in accordance with the subject embodiment the door is arranged to be closed and the lock bolt members actuated through the use of a lift truck such as that shown at 190 in FIG. 3. The lift truck has its fork section modified so that the two forks are spaced apart a distance equal to the spacing between the vertical lock bolt assemblies 109 on each door assembly. Additionally, and for reasons which will hereafter be discussed, the ends of the forks are provided with rollers 192 and laterally extending guide sections 194 (see FIG. 23).

With the door in its lower position, shown in FIG. 3, and the autos suitably positioned and engaged with the hook assemblies 70, the fork truck is driven towards the outer free edge of the door and the ends of the fork enter the open ends of the frame members 58. As the fork truck is driven toward the door, the forks enter the members 58 and the rollers 192 engage the bottom or inner surface of member 58. Continued forward move ment of the fork truck, combined with a lifting of the fork, causes the door to be pivoted about its hinges and moved approximately to the dotted line position 60, FIG. 3. Continued forward movement causes the roller to engage the inclined surface 1540 of the cam member 154. As the fork truck continues to move towards the rail car, the roller acts against the surface 154a causing the cam member 154 to be pivoted in a clockwise direction retracting the lock bolt 140. Additionally, this causes the plate 178 to be pivoted :in a clockwise direction about pivot and its portion 176a enters the guideway formed by member 58 to the dotted line position shown in FIG. 11. As the roller passes over cam member 154, the spring causes the lock bolt 140 to extend. As the door swings shut the lock bolt 140 is cammed inwardly by engagement of its outer end with the inclined surface on member 32. (see FIG. 5). When the door is completely closed the spring extends bolt 140 into the lock opening.

Should the lock pin fail to extend, the member 176 remains in the dotted line position of FIG. 11, thereby preventing downward movement of the fork. The operator thus knows that the vertical. lock bolts are not properly engaged.

After the vertical lock bolts have been engaged, horizontal lock bolts are actuated outwardly to engage the vertical frame member 33 (see FIG. 18). Thereafter,

the fork is lowered to approximately position A in FIG.

4. At this level, the vertical opening 58a in member 58 is sufficiently wide to permit the outwardly extending portions 194 of the fork to be retracted.

INTERLOCK ASSEMBLIES 130 It is required that the car not be permitted to move until the horizontal lock bolts have been secured in position. For this reason, the subject invention provides an interlock arrangement whereby the fork lift cannot be'disengaged from the door until the horizontal lock bolts have been moved to their closed or locked position. The interlock arrangement could take many forms within the scope of the invantion; however, one preferred form is as shown in FIGS. 4, and 16. Note that one of the interlock assemblies 130 is positioned at the inner end of each of members 104a and 104b. FIGS. 15 and 16 show the interlock assembly connected to member 104a. It is to be appreciated that the other interlock assembly is identical but of opposite hand.

In the embodiment under consideration, interlock assembly 130 includes a first plate member 200 which is riveted or otherwise firmly connected to the end of member 1040. Member 120 is carried in a guideway for horizontal sliding movement with 104a. The guideway includes a generally U-shaped plate member 202 which is connected to the outer surface of the door frame assembly. Along the upper surface of plate 200 is connected a lock plate member 206. The member 206 is pivotally connected between plate 200 and a bracket plate 208 connected to plate 200 by rivets 210. This can be seen more clearly in FIG. 16. The member 206 is carried on pin 212 which extends outwardly from plate 200 and through the bracket 208. Additionally, it passes out through the U-shaped bracket 202 and is slidably received in a horizontally elongated slot formed through plate 202. Because plate 206 is positioned immediately above the top edge of member 104a (as seen in FIG. 15), it cannot pivot in a counterclockwise direction; however, the plate is always free to pivot in a clockwise direction.

Mounted immediately below plate 206 is a second pivotal lock plate member 216. Plate 216 is mounted for pivotal movement on a pin 218 which extends outwardly from the base member 201 and through the U- shaped frame or housing 202. The plate 216 is thus not free to move horizontally with member 200. Plate 200, however, has a lip portion 220 which extends outwardly under plate 216. With the horizontal lock bolts moved into position, the plate 200 will be in the solid line position shown in FIG. 15. Consequently, at that time, the plate 216 cannot be moved in a clockwise direction but is free to pivot counter-clockwise. Conversely, when the lock bolts are in their open or retracted position, the portion 220 is under the left hand of plate 216 and the plate is free to pivot in a clockwise direction but cannot pivot counter-clockwise.

OPERATION OF INTERLOCK ASSEMBLIES 130 The importance of the two plates 206 and 216 can best be understood by a description of their function in a door closing and a door opening operation. Assume that the door has just been moved to the closed position as previously discussed. Thereafter, continued downward movement will bring the forks to the level of the interlock assemblies 130. If the horizontal lock pins have not been actuated outwardly, the plate 200 will be in its leftmost dotted line position identified by numeral 200. Additionally, the pivot plates 206 and 216 will be in the positions identified by numerals 206 and 216'. As the fork moves down in the guideway 58, it engages the top surface of the outwardly extending plate 206. Since, as previously discussed, plate 206 cannot pivot in a counter-clockwise direction, continued downward movement of the fork is not possible. Thus, the driver immediately knows that the horizontal lock bolts have not been moved to their locked position and must take care of this operation before the withdrawal of the forks can take place. After the lock bolts have been closed, the plates 206 and 216 are in the solid line position. Plate 216 is, of course, extending outwardly across the guideway but can pivot counter-clockwise permitting the fork to move down to the opening 581) (see FIG. 4) where the guide groove 58a is wider and retraction of the fork can take place.

Conversely, when it is desired to lower the door, the fork of the fork lift truck is elevated to openings 58b of FIG. 4 and moved into the guideway formed by member 58. As the fork is moved upwardly to the level of the interlock assembly 130, it will engage the outwardly extending plate 216. If the horizontal lock bolts are in a locked position, plate 216 is prevented from rotating in a clockwise direction by the presence of lip 220 under its right hand side. To continue the upward movement of the fork, the driver is required to unlock the horizontal lock bolts to permit the plate 216 to pivot out of the way to the position shown by line 216. The upward movement of the fork can thereafter be continued. Although engagement of plate 206 will take place, this plate is free to pivot clockwise as previously mentioned.

When the rollers on the fork reach the level of cam lever 154 of the vertical lock bolt assemblies 109 (see FIG. 11), they engage the curved surface and pivot the cam plate 154 in the counter-clockwise direction to withdraw the vertical lock pins 140. Thereafter, the fork lift truck is moved in reverse and the extending portions 194 engage the undersurface of the inwardly turned flanges of member 58 and cause the door to be pivoted outwardly.

The interlock assemblies 130 thus perform a very important function of insuring that prior to attempting to open the door, the horizontal lock bolts are open and, similarly, they assure that prior to withdrawing the fork lift, they have been locked.

MODIFIED FORM OF INTERLOCK Other types of interlock assemblies could obviously be provided. FIGS. 21 and 22 show a modified interlock arrangement which secures automatic opening and closing of the horizontal lock bolt during a door opening and closing operation, respectively.

The embodiment shown in FIGS. 20 to 21 would be located at the same locations as the assemblies 130. Additionally, when using this embodiment, the manually operable levers 108 and 108a can be eliminated and the length of the shafts 88 and 88a need to be only as long as the distance between the horizontal lock bolt assemblies and 110a respectively.

Referring in particular to FIG. 21, the modified form of interlock assembly includes a plate 230 which is pivotally connected to the door assembly by pivot pin 232. Pin 232 is welded at one end to a plate 234 and at the other end to a U-shaped bracket 236. The bracket 236 is permanently connected to the door frame such as by welding. It will be seen that the plate member 230 has a pair of outwardly extending leg portions 230a and 23Gb arranged to extend across the groove 58a in member 58. The plate 230 is connected to the end of member 104a by a pivot pin 238.

With the plate 230 in the position shown by solid lines in FIG. 1, the member 104 is in its right most position and the horizontal latch bolt at the end is engaged with the vertical frame member 33. However, when the plate 230 is pivoted in a clockwise direction to the dotted line position identified by numeral 230', the horizontal lock bolt is in a retracted or open position. Similarly, the lower horizontal lock bolt carried at the end of member 104a is caused to retract and extend by the drive connection between members 104a and 104.

Although the drive connection could be the same as that disclosed in reference to the first embodiment, it is preferable to use the arrangement shown in FIGS. 21 and 22. Note that the shaft 88 is carried in suitable bearings or guide plates 240 and has crank arms 242 connected at its opposite ends. The upper crank am is connected to member 104a by a pivot pin 244 which engages a bracket 246 welded to the rear surface of member 104a. Similarly, the lower crank arm also is provided with a pin 248 which is received in a generally similar bracket 250 welded to the rear surface of member 104. Accordingly, movement of the upper member 1040 causes rotation of shaft 88 and a corresponding movement of member 104.

OPERATION OF MODIFIED INTERLOCK ASSEMBLY To review briefly a sequence of operations using the interlock assembly of FIGS. 21 and 22, assume that the door assembly 16 is to be moved to a closed position. The sequence of operations up to the time of engagement of the interlock assembly would be the same as those previously described with reference to the first embodiment; however, when the fork of the lift truck had been moved to the level of the modified interlock assembly, it would engage the outwardly extending portion 23% of the plate 230 (this is assuming that the horizontal lock bolts were in an open position). As the fork continued downward, the plate 230 would be caused to pivot in a counter-clockwise direction moving the horizontal lock bolts to the closed position. Conversely, on a door opening operation, as the fork moved upwardly, it would engage the lower portion of member 2300. Continued upward movement would pivot plate 230 in a clockwise direction causing the horizontal lock bolts to be retracted.

Although many modifications of the preferred embodiments described above will become apparent upon a reading and understanding of the specification, it is our intention to include all such modifications and alterations as part of our invention insofar as they come within the scope of the appended claim.

What is claimed is:

1. Apparatus comprising:

a door member having an inner face, an outer face,

and a peripheral edge;

hinge means for mounting said door member for swinging movement between an open position and a closed position;

at least one vertical lock bolt member and at least one horizontal lock bolt member carried by said door for movement between locked and unlocked positions;

guideway forming means extending along the outer face of said door for receiving and guiding an associated member for movement along said guideway in a first direction for opening said lock bolt members and in a second direction. for closing at least said vertical lock bolt member;

lock bolt operating means extending between each of said lock bolt members and said guideway, said lock bolt operating means including means for me venting said associated member, when moving in said first direction, from moving said vertical lock bolt member to an unlocked position until said horizontal lock bolt member is in an unlocked position and when said associated member is moving in said second direction preventing withdrawal of said associated member until said horizontal lock bolt is in its locked position.

2. The apparatus as described in claim 1 wherein said guideway forming means includes at least one groove extending into the outer face of said door, with said lock bolt operating means including members extending into said groove at spaced points therealong.

3. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said vertical lock bolt member is continuously biased toward its locked position.

4. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said lock bolt operating means includes a cam member extending into said guideway and engageably by said associated member.

5. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said lock bolt operating means includes a manually operable lever for moving said horizontal lock bolt member between its open and closed positions.

6. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said lock bolt operating means includes first cam means connected to said vertical lock bolt member and second cam means connected to said horizontal lock bolt member, said first and second cam means extending into said guideway at spaced points longitudinally thereof.

7. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 including a cam member having a portion positioned in said guideway, a cable connected between said vertical lock bolt member and said cam member and means for biasing said vertical lock bolt member toward said locked position.

8. A vehicle transporting apparatus including at least one door member mounted for pivoting movement about a generally horizontal axis between a generally vertical transporting position and a generally lateral loading position, said door having an inner face with means to connect vehicles thereto, an outer face, and a peripheral edge;

at least one vertical lock bolt member and at least one horizontal lock bolt member carried by said door and each movable between a locked position and an unlocked position;

at least one guideway formed on the outer face of said door and extending along said face in a direction generally perpendicular to said axis, said guideway adapted to receive and guide an associated member which moves said door between the transporting position and the loading position;

lock bolt actuating means for moving said vertical and horizontal lock bolt members between their locked and unlocked positions, said actuating means including means in conjunction with said guideway for preventing removal of said associated member following movement of said door to a transporting position at least until said vertical and said horizontal lock bolt members have been moved to their lock positions.

9. The apparatus as defined in claim 8 wherein said lock bolt actuating means includes means for maintaining said vertical bolt member continuously biased toward its locked position and cam means drivingly connected to said vertical bolt member for causing movement of said first bolt member to an unlocked position when said associated member moves past said cam means.

10. The apparatus as defined in claim 8 wherein said lock bolt actuating means includes means for preventing movement of said associated member out of said guideway in a direction toward said axis without said horizontal lock bolt member being in the lock position.

1 l. The apparatus as defined in claim 8 wherein said lock bolt actuating means includes a cam member associated with said guideway and connected to said vertical lock bolt by a flexible cable.

12. The apparatus as defined in claim 8 wherein said lock bolt actuating means includes means for maintaining said vertical lock bolt member in the locked position except when said associated member is within said guideway.

13. A transporting apparatus including at least one door assembly mounted for pivoting movement about a generally horizontal axis between a generally vertical closed position and a generally lateral open position,

said door having an inner face, an outer face, and a peripheral edge;

at least one vertical lock bolt member and at least one horizontal lock bolt member carried by said door for movement between locked and unlocked positions;

guideway forming means extending along the outer face of said door for receiving and guiding an associated member for movement along said guideway in a first direction for opening said lock bolt members and in a second direction for closing said lock bolt members;

lock bolt operating means for both said vertical lock bolt member and said horizontal lock bolt member including first cam means connected to said vertical lock bolt member and second cam means connected to said horizontal lock bolt member, said first and second cam means being at spaced points along said guideway.

14. A closure construction comprised of a closure member, means supporting said closure member for pivotal movement about a pivot axis between an opened position and a closed position, first latching means at the edge of said closure member remote from its pivot axis, said first latching means being movable between a latched position and a released position, second latching means at an edge of said closure member angularly disposed relative to the first mentioned edge, said second latching means being movable between a latched position and a released position, means defining an opening in said closure member for receiving an operator for moving one of said latching means between its positions, means for moving the other of said latching means between its positions, and means for precluding the removal of an operator from said opening until said other latching means is in its latched position. 

1. Apparatus comprising: a door member having an inner face, an outer face, and a peripheral edge; hinge means for mounting said door member for swinging movement between an open position and a closed position; at least one vertical lock bolt member and at least one horizontal lock bolt member carried by said door for movement between locked and unlocked positions; guideway forming means extending along the outer face of said door for receiving and guiding an associated member for movement along said guideway in a first direction for opening said lock bolt members and in a second direction for closing at least said vertical lock bolt member; lock bolt operating means extending between each of said lock bolt members and said guideway, said lock bolt operating means including means for preventing said associated member, when moving in said first direction, from moving said vertical lock bolt member to an unlocked position until said horizontal lock bolt member is in an unlocked position and when said associated member is moving in said second direction preventing withdrawal of said associated member until said horizontal lock bolt is in its locked position.
 2. The apparatus as described in claim 1 wherein said guideway forming means includes at least one groove extending into the outer face of said door, with said lock bolt operating means including members extending into said groove at spaced points therealong.
 3. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said vertical lock bolt member is continuously biased toward its locked position.
 4. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said lock bolt operating means includes a cam member extending into said guideway and engageably by said associated member.
 5. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said lock bolt operating means includes a manually operable lever for moving said horizontal lock bolt member between its open and closed positions.
 6. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said lock bolt operating means includes first cam means connected to said vertical lock bolt member and second cam means connected to said horizontal lock bolt member, said first and second cam means extending into said guideway at spaced points longitudinally thereof.
 7. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 including a cam member having a portion positioned in said guideway, a cable connected between said vertical lock bolt member and said cam member and means for biasing said vertical lock bolt member toward said locked position.
 8. A vehicle transporting apparatus including at least one door member mounted for pivoting movement about a generally horizontal axis between a generally vertical transporting position and a generally lateral loading position, said door having an inner face with means to connect vehicles thereto, an outer face, and a peripheral edge; at least one vertical lock bolt member and at least one horizontal lock bolt member carried by said door and each movable between a locked position and an unlocked position; at least one guideway formed on the outer face of said door and extending along said face in a direction generally perpendicular to said axis, said guideway adapted to receive and guide an associated member which moves said door between the transporting position and the loading position; lock bolt actuating means for moving said vertical and horizontal lock bolt members between their locked and unlocked positions, said actuating means including means in conjunction with said guideway for preventing removal of said associated member following movement of said door to a transporting position at least until said vertical and said horizontal lock bolt members have been moved to their lock positions.
 9. The apparatus as defined in claim 8 wherein said lock bolt actuating means includes means for maintaining said vertical bolt member continuously biased toward its locked position and cam means drivingly connected to said vertical bolt member for causing movement of said first bolt member to an unlocked position when said associated member moves past said cam means.
 10. The apparatus as defined in claim 8 wherein said lock bolt actuating means includes means for preventing movement of said associated member out of said guideway in a direction toward said axis without said horizontal lock bolt member being in the lock position.
 11. The apparatus as defined in claim 8 wherein said lock bolt actuating means includes a cam member associated with said guideway and connected to said vertical lock bolt by a flexible cable.
 12. The apparatus as defined in claim 8 wherein said lock bolt actuating means includes means for maintaining said vertical lock bolt member in the locked position except when said associated member is within said guideway.
 13. A transporting apparatus including at least one door assembly mounted for pivoting movement about a generally horizontal axis between a generally vertical closed position and a generally lateral open position, said door having an inner face, an outer face, and a peripheral edge; at least one vertical lock bolt member and at least one horizontal lock bolt member carried by said door for movement between locked and unlocked positions; guideway forming means extending along the outer face of said door for receiving and guiding an associated member for movement along said guideway in a first direction for opening said lock bolt members and in a second direction for closing said lock bolt members; lock bolt operating means for both said vertical lock bolt member and said horizontal lock bolt member including first cam means connected to said vertical lock bolt member and second cam means connected to said horizontal lock bolt member, said first and second cam means being at spaced points along said guideway.
 14. A closure construction comprised of a closure member, means supporting said closure member for pivotal movement about a pivot axis between an opened position and a closed position, first latching means at the edge of said closure member remote from its pivot axis, said first latching means being movable between a latched position and a released position, second latching means at an edge of said closure member angularly disposed relative to the first mentioned edge, said second latching means being movable between a latched position and a released position, means defining an opening in said closure member for receiving an operator for moving one of said latching means between its positions, means for moving the other of said latching means between its positions, and means for precluding the removal of an operator from said opening until said other latching means is in its latched position. 